Maintaining Your Website

Websites for churches and ministries are growing in importance comparable to the traditional weekly print newsletter, though they can be created and maintained without nearly the cost of printing and postage. Because they are a primary means of communication, be sure to assign the appropriate staff (or volunteer) resources for their care and upkeep. For example, you may want to assign responsibilities for sections – if not for making the actual changes and updates at least the collection of information. Keeping content current gives visitors a reason to return again and again.

Remember that communication is a two-way street. As visitors send email requests and inquiries, these messages should receive a response. An automated “thank you for your inquiry” is a start, but should be followed by a personal response from staff (or volunteer) as the request warrants.

Also, it’s a good idea to have someone check the site periodically to make sure links are still working and that outdated information has been removed. E-zekiel, of course, gives you the option to publish and remove content on a dated schedule.